Rourkela, July 13 (UDN): Tension prevailed at Sheetal Nagar under the Bandhamunda police station limits in Rourkela on Monday after hundreds of tribal residents staged a protest against the proposed land acquisition for the expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP).

According to official sources, the land at Sheetal Nagar has been identified for the steel plant’s expansion project. However, members of the local tribal community opposed the acquisition, asserting that they hold traditional rights over the land and expressing concerns over the impact the project could have on their livelihoods and rehabilitation.

Raising slogans and demanding the withdrawal of the acquisition process, protesters assembled in large numbers and entered the project site, resulting in a tense standoff with the authorities.

In response, the district administration deployed five platoons of police force to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incident. Senior police and administrative officials remained at the site to monitor the situation and ensure that the protest remained peaceful.

The demonstrators urged the government and the Rourkela Steel Plant authorities to halt the expansion work until their grievances are addressed. They called for recognition of their traditional land rights and sought assurances on rehabilitation, compensation and livelihood protection before the project proceeds.

Despite the heightened tension, no incidents of violence or injuries were reported. Officials have initiated dialogue with representatives of the tribal community in an effort to find an amicable resolution to the dispute.

The proposed expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant is considered a key industrial development initiative in the region. However, the ongoing protest has highlighted the importance of balancing infrastructure growth with the rights and concerns of affected local communities.